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Weddings Tahitian Style
It’s really no
wonder why Tahiti, after beating out all the other destinations in the
world, has been awarded the Sexiest Romance and Honeymoon destination
year after year. The remoteness of these fabled islands, the sweet
intoxicating smell of the fragrant Tiare floating through the air,
luxurious accommodations on all islands, and the French flair for
epicurean delights as well as their “Joie de livre,” undoubtedly put
these romantic isles in a league all alone. Most honeymooners or lovers wishing to renew their vows will find Polynesian ceremonies to be a heart pounding and cherishing rite they will remember forever. And, most of the luxury resorts offer these ceremonies as do a few independent operators. On Bora Bora, you can contact Patrick’s Activities for a sunset ceremony that is performed on the beach. For a fee of $750, Patrick conducts the wedding and will declare Tane (husband) and Vahine (wife) as one. Outfitted in white pareos and baptized with new Tahitian names the couple will exchange flower leis and head crowns which symbolizes harmony between the couple. The Tahitian couple will receive a “tapa” marriage certificate, singing and dancing follows, celebrating the union as the sun sets into the sea. The ceremony lasts approximately 30 minutes and includes all of the above plus musicians and Champagne. Visit www.boraboraisland.com/todo/maevas/patricks.html for more information or contact Joyce at Incredible Journey to help with all arrangements. On Moorea the Tiki Village offers elaborate ceremonies with plenty of extras. The couple will arrive by outrigger canoe as villagers line up along the beach to greet them while the ukulele is being played. The Vahine (woman) is escorted to a “fare” (bamboo hut) where the women of the village will give her a ceremonious massage with traditional “monoi” oil and dress her like a Tahitian Princess. While the Vahine is being tended to, the Tane (man) is taken to a nearby beach to be tattooed (by felt tip pen), a Tahitian tradition, and dressed as a High Chief. He is brought back to village and is welcomed by his bride, all the while being accompanied by the High Priest and the villagers who all dress for this royal occasion. The High Priest and the couple enter the Marae (sacred stone temple) which looks over the lagoon and where the ceremony is performed in Tahitian while the women of the village sing traditional chants. The High Priest bless the couple with their Tahitian names and the Tahitian names of their future children, then the couple covered in fragrant flower leis and garlands proceed to the Royal Chair to be carried by four noble warriors. The couple receive the tapa marriage certificate. Champagne is served while the young women of the village dance in their honor. The newlyweds then board a decorated Royal Floating fare to toast the event alone as the sun sets into the sea. For an added treat the newlyweds can spend their first night together on board their floating fare and be served all their meals in private. Rates start at $1400 for this royal ceremony. Visit www.tikivillage.pf/english for more information or contact Joyce at Incredible Journey to help with all travel arrangements. To arrange a legal marriage of two non French citizens on Tahiti requires about a month of preparation. You will need:
For more information you can contact the official Tahiti website at: www.tahiti-tourisme.com |
